With co-owners Russell Crowe and Peter Holmes a Court watching on, as well as recently reunited club saviour George Piggins, Souths players broke into jubilant scenes at full-time not seen for in the cardinal and myrtle for years.

His opposite, Canterbury coach Des Hasler, may have lost but he did a remarkable job guiding his side to another grand final — a fifth in eight years for him personally.

But it was all about Souths. The club was broke, kicked out of the competition and had no future.

Russell Crowe says Sam Burgess's Clive Churchill Medal performance has carved his name deep into the history of rugby league.

Yet their spirit and courage couldn't be broken.

It was a rugged decider, as both teams ripped into each other mercilessly. That was never more evident than when departing Souths star Sam Burgess fractured his cheekbone in a vicious head clash with fellow Englishman James Graham. Bloodied, Burgess went on to play every minute and win the Clive Churchill Medal.

"I'm lost for words. It was a cracking year I will never forget," Burgess said. "It's something that can never be taken away from me.

"It will be in my heart forever."

THE 43-year drought is over and the pride of the league is, once again, the pride of the league. Glory, glory to South Sydney.

The Rabbitohs completed 21 of 22 sets in the first half and struck first in the 20th minute through rising winger Alex Johnston. They extended their lead to 6-0 through a 26th minute Reynolds penalty goal.

The Rabbitohs surged through the middle of the Canterbury ruck and the Dogs didn't have a genuine tryscoring chance in the first half.